Course

Hydrographic Surveying: Independent Checks

Time limit: 90 days
2 credits
Instructor: Jim Naismith

$100 Enroll

Full course description

 

CONRAD BLUCHER INSTITUTE FOR SURVEYING AND SCIENCE

Hydrographic Surveying: Independent Checks

2.0
PDH Credits
90
Days Access
80%
Passing Score
2
Modules
Online
Self-Paced

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Course Overview

Hydrographic surveyors rely on sophisticated software and sensor systems to collect accurate underwater data, but what happens when that system has an undetected error? This course teaches professionals how to find errors that automated systems miss.

You will learn the principles behind independent verification, the practice of manual depth measurement using lead lines, and develop critical thinking skills to evaluate whether your survey software is producing results you can trust. Real-world examples ground every concept in field practice.

Whether you work in dredging, navigation, or coastal engineering, this course gives you the tools to sign your name to a survey with confidence.

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Professional Benefits

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Credit applicable toward professional surveyor continuing education requirements

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Expert instruction from an active hydrographic surveyor and licensed professional with decades of field experience

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Field-tested procedures drawn from real surveys, including lead line demonstrations and positioning checks

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Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, participants will be able to:

1

Explain what makes a measurement truly independent and why redundant measurements using the same method, equipment, and procedure cannot detect systematic errors.

2

Evaluate NGS control monuments for suitability as independent vertical checks, including interpreting orthometric height designations on NGS data sheets.

3

Apply lead line procedures to measure water depth manually, including reading the tape correctly, correcting for water level, and comparing results to an acoustic survey.

4

Interpret NMEA and EC string data formats and describe how hydrographic surveying software integrates position and depth measurements, including the role of latency correction.

5

Recognize how manual measurement methods serve as independent checks on automated survey systems, and apply that understanding to evaluate whether software output is producing reasonable results.

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Module Breakdown

MODULE 1

Manual Measurement Methods

  • Systematic vs. random error, and what makes a check truly independent
  • Evaluating NGS control monuments & vertical datum relationships
  • Water level verification & GNSS RTK positioning checks
  • Lead line procedures and technique
  • Fluid mud conditions, sonar calibration & Corps of Engineers QC criteria

Assessment: Independent Checks and Procedures Quiz | 80% to pass

MODULE 2

Hydrographic Surveying Software

  • How software automates the manual measurement process
  • NMEA GGA/ZDA strings & EC string depth data integration
  • Latency and time synchronization
  • Survey vessel configurations, motion reference units & sensor offsets
  • AUV platforms, inertial navigation & emerging technologies

Assessment: Hydrographic Surveying Software Quiz | 80% to pass

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Target Audience

  • Registered Professional Land Surveyors (RPLS) and Licensed State Land Surveyors (LSLS)
  • Hydrographic surveyors and field technicians
  • Geospatial professionals working in coastal or marine environments
  • Civil engineers involved in dredging or waterway projects
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Technical Requirements

  • High-speed internet connection
  • Modern web browser
  • Audio capability for video lectures
  • No software installation required
  • Optional: printer for supplementary materials

Note: This course awards 2.0 PDH / 0.2 CEU credits. Participants are responsible for verifying acceptance of this course with their individual state licensing board. Course content is subject to updates at any time.

For registration assistance, contact Shelby Sharpe at shelby.sharpe@tamucc.edu

A Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science Professional Development Course ©